Wonderful project for a first shirt

As a Confident Beginner I’ve been keeping an eye out for the dream ‘first shirt’ pattern – something with a straightforward but fun construction, loose casual fit and easy to follow instructions. The Gilbert Shirt has ticked all of those boxes for me.

As always with Helens Closet patterns, everything has been given such care and attention from notches for the sleeve hems to the incredibly satisfying burrito method construction, all written out incredibly clearly. It was a joy to follow these instructions, and they didn’t leave me scratching my head once but knowing there are more details and tips available on the Helens Closet website was a great comfort to have in case I needed them. I enjoyed sewing this up so much and cannot recommend it enough.

I am 4′ 11″ and shortened the front and back pieces by 1″, and graded from Size 4 at the shoulders and bust to Size 2 at the hips, but needed no other alterations.

The shirt also goes beautifully with the Helens Closet Winslow Cullottes, for a really easy to wear breezy summer outfit!